I've been told for years that the proper way to wait out a lightning storm is to crouch down. Why is this better than lying down on the ground?

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Question:

I've been told for years that the proper way to wait out a lightning storm is to crouch down. But I always wondered why this was better than just lying down on the ground. You would seem to be less of a target if you are lying down flat.

Submitted by - -Anthony, Blackwood, NJ

Answer:

Crouching down during a lightning storm does reduce your height and, therefore, reduces the chance you'll be a target. But at least as important, a proper crouch keeps your contact with the ground to a minimum. A nearby strike sends a powerful current through the ground--if your contact with the ground is minimal, a ground current will pass underneath harmlessly. If you are lying down, spread out with lots of entry and exit points for the electricity, a ground current may pass through your body and possibly cause great harm.

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